Dental Implants
dentalDescription
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as permanent foundations for replacement teeth. They are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, offering superior stability, function, and aesthetics compared to bridges or dentures. Options include single implants, implant-supported bridges, and full-arch solutions like All-on-4 and All-on-6 that replace entire arches of teeth with just 4-6 implants. Modern implantology uses 3D CBCT scanning for precise planning, computer-guided placement for accuracy, and immediate-load protocols that provide temporary teeth on the same day. Success rates exceed 95% with proper patient selection and surgical technique.
What to Expect
Implant placement takes 1-2 hours per implant under local anesthesia or sedation. Bone grafting may be needed if jaw bone density is insufficient, adding 3-6 months to the timeline. Immediate-load protocols allow temporary crowns on the same day. Traditional protocols require 3-6 months of healing before placing final crowns. Full-mouth restorations (All-on-4) can be completed in 1-2 days with temporary prosthesis, with final restoration at 4-6 months.
Recovery Information
Days 1-3: Swelling and mild discomfort managed with medications and ice. Soft diet for 1-2 weeks. Weeks 1-2: Suture removal, initial healing assessment. Months 1-3: Osseointegration (bone fusion with implant) progresses. Months 3-6: Osseointegration complete, final impressions taken. Final restoration (crown, bridge, or prosthesis) placed after full bone integration. Long-term success requires meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups every 6 months.